OUT & ABOUT
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CARS AND DRIVING
Check out the Sep/Oct 1998 issue of "In Motion" for a comprehensive article about assistive driving resources and adaptive equipment. Be aware that some adaptive equipment conversions may be covered by your insurance, or partially reimbursed by major auto companies such as Chrysler (1-800-255-9877), Ford (1-800-952-2248), GM (1-800-323-9935) in the USA or (1-800-463-7483) in Canada and Saturn (1-800-553-6000). Check with the ACA, your car dealership, or the Automobile Club of America for more information. Other resources are your local or state rehabilitation services office, V.A., or the National Mobility Equipment Dealers Association: (1-800-833-0427). Most of these reimbursements are for modifications for wheelchairs or scooters, but may also cover left foot accelerators or extenders.
Ease of access to your car or van is the first consideration. The choice of 2 door vs 4 door depends on your personal needs, space in your garage, use of crutches, prosthesis, wheelchair or scooter. Getting in and out of your vehicle can be made easier if you take the time to shop around and educate yourself about your options.
Automatic transmission is a must since we haven't a leg to use a clutch. Adjustable seats and, steering wheels provide space to accommodate your leg depending on your height. If you've lost your left leg, driving is not a problem with or without a prosthesis. If you're a right leg amputee, there are left foot accelerators or extensions that are available. For right leg prosthetic users, there is a device called a rotator which can be placed in your prosthesis which will allow you to rotate your prosthetic leg sideways, out of the way and make it easier to reach the pedals. Ask your CP for information about these and see the section on Prosthetics.
TRAVELING
Be it with prosthesis, crutches, wheelchair or scooter, there is no reason to be stuck in the house when you can get out and about. Check out the article about Accessible Travel Tips, "In Motion" July/Aug. 1998 for a complete listing of useful companies, organizations, phone numbers and addresses.
Several travel agencies and companies now specialize in traveling with a disability. Debra Briscoe, BK, wheelchair and electric scooter user is an excellent resource for those non prosthetic users. Contact:
Easy Access Travel
5386 Arlington Ave
Riverside, CA 92504
(800) 920-8989 or (909) 372-9595
ezaccess@attbi.com
Accessible Journeys
35 West Sellers Ave
Ridley Park, PA 19078
800-TINGLES or 610-521-0339
sales@disabilitytravel.com
For wheelchair users:
Flying Wheels Travel
143 Bridge St., P.O. Box 382
Owatonna, MN 55060
(800) 535-6790 or (507) 451-5005
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For city by city information on public transit systems, hotel/motel shuttle services, airports, taxis and national 800 numbers to assist with travel plans check out www.projectaction.org |
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Before leaving on a trip it's
wise to stop at your prosthetist for preventative maintenance. This should include a
careful check of components and any other parts subject to wear and breakdown. Check out
the article "Schedule Maintenance Before Traveling", In Motion, Aug/Sept 1997. |
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Have your CP put together a
little "fix it" kit , extra screws, screwdrivers, straps, hardware, etc.
Those items that are most likely to fail due to overuse. Be sure you know how to
make minor repairs yourself. Have them show you how before you leave. This kit
will be different for each of us, since all our prostheses are different. Don't
laugh, but a role of duct tape or strapping tape and a small container of WD 40 and lock
tight can sure come in handy. "My prosthetist taught me many years ago how to do minor adjustments to my leg. I purchased a set of metric ALLEN wrenches (handy pocket model by Snap-on tools). This has allowed me to do minor fixes on the go...especially when I twisted my leg when on holidays in Mexico 2 years ago. Duct tape, WD-40 and an attitude that does not demand perfection are helpful..." Robert K, HD |
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Heat and sweat can cause
problems with rashes and skin irritations so bring an adequate supply of all lotions,
potions and powders to deal with the inevitable skin problems that will occur. If
you need it bring your special soap and a washcloth, or disposable towels for washing out
your prosthesis. |
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Pack a supply of OTC
analgesics, (Motrin, Advil, Aleve). You are bound to overdo it, with or without leg, and
muscle aches and pains are a common occurrence with the excitement and overexertion of
travel. |
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Your prosthesis is a dandy
place to hide your valuables. A small pouch attached to your thigh pylon or placed under
the cosmetic stockings can hold cash, passport and jewelry, like a money belt worn on the
leg. |
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Handicapped placards are valid
and recognized throughout the U.S. even if used with a rental car. Therefore, don't leave
home without it. (I don't know what the laws are regarding these in Canada or overseas.) |
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There are a variety of foldable
or collapsibile crutches on the market, both underarm and forearm (see the section on non-prosthetic options for further information).
They are great for travel, however airlines have been known to lose baggage. For this
reason I never pack my travel crutches in my check-in suitcase, but tie them on to my
carry on bag so they are with me at all times in case of emergency. |
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Full size crutches can be
placed in a ski bag and go along with your checked in luggage. |
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Don't wear yourself out just
getting to your destination. Long walks in airline terminals to make connections can be
made easier if you plan ahead. Most airlines will arrange for wheelchairs or other
transport to get you from one gate to another, so call ahead and make arrangements in
advance. |
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Long plane flights overseas can
be exhausting, and without a doubt it's hard to sit for long periods of time in a
prosthetic. Try to break up your trip into shorter sections. Some international terminals
offer "day rooms" which can be rented by the hour. If you have a few hours
layover it's a chance to take off your leg, lie down, shower and relax before continuing
on. Although expensive, sometimes it's worth spending the night in a airport hotel for
very long journeys. |
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Pack your common sense and pace
yourself. You don't have to see it ALL in one trip. You'll see plenty. Go with the leg,
but remember, as long as you are proficient with crutches you'll be able to see and do all
you wish. You can always leave your leg locked up at the hotel. Leave your
pride at home. If help, a wheelchair, an elevator, or a seat is offered, accept it
with a smile and a "thank you." Most people just won't care if you're
with leg or without. It's being there that counts. |
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Traveling is wonderful, but can be exhausting. Start getting into shape before you leave. Start with short walks and gradually build up time and distance, with or without leg on. Any aerobic activity will help increase endurance. |
I've been an inveterate traveler since backpacking my way thru Europe as a student, and have traveled extensively throughout the world using my prosthesis and collapsible crutches. It isn't easy. Frequently I've not taken my own advice, but it sure has been worth it in wonderful experiences and memories. Bon voyage!
SAFETY
Anyone with an obvious disability will be seen as an easy target for muggers. Be aware of your surroundings when out in public and learn how to protect yourself. Self defense classes may be offered by your local amputee support group, YMCA or community college. No matter if you use a prosthesis, crutches or wheelchair, there are things you can learn and do to protect yourself. The author attended a self defense class at the last ACA convention and found it very useful.
Be aware that the Internet also has the potential for violation of personal safety. Devotees are people who derive sexual gratification from physical contact or just viewing pictures of amputees. You might receive odd messages and requests from strangers, so never give out your address or phone # to someone who you don't know. Asking for pictures and/or video tapes is a tip off. If it sounds fishy or abnormal, it probably is. For a more extensive explanation of Devotees, check out the article: "A Special Attraction to Amputees-Amputee Devotees", In Motion Nov/Dec 1998.
